Lynn Dekleva, former lobbyist for the American Chemistry Council, has recently taken a significant position at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where she runs the office responsible for approving new chemicals. Her previous role in the chemical industry included leading campaigns against regulations on formaldehyde, a carcinogenic substance used in furniture and clothing.
In 2021, the EPA initiated a regulation effort on formaldehyde due to health concerns, which resulted in aggressive pushback from the chemical industry, predominantly led by Dekleva. Now, as she navigates her new responsibilities at the EPA, the American Chemistry Council is advocating for a rollback of these regulations and for alterations to the agency's chemical approval process.
With Dekleva's extensive background, including a 32-year tenure at chemical giant Dupont, her dual advantages raise concerns about the balance between industry interests and public health. Another former lobbyist from her previous organization, Nancy Beck, joins her at the EPA, reinforcing the industry’s emphasis on reducing regulations. The ongoing debate brings to light the critical challenge of ensuring safety standards while addressing economic interests in chemical production.
